Topical skincare can brighten and soften the surface, but it can’t address the actual structure of your skin. Microneedling with DermaPen® capitalizes on your skin’s natural repair process, using controlled micro-channels in the epidermis and upper dermis.

Those micro-channels signal your skin that it’s time to ramp up renewal by producing more growth factors, fibroblasts, and structural proteins. There’s also a brief window where calming, hydrating serums can be more effectively absorbed before the channels close, typically within hours.

Over the next four to eight weeks, remodeling beneath the surface softens the look of fine lines and old blemish marks, and the skin around pores becomes firmer, so they appear smaller and tighter. 

What to Expect During a Microneedling Appointment

You can expect to be here for approximately an hour. We begin with a brief conversation about your skin history, any recent treatments, and your typical healing process. Then we cleanse and photograph the area to track progress. We apply a topical numbing cream to help alleviate mild discomfort.

During the treatment, your ADCI esthetician will use the DermaPen to move across your skin in a precise motion while adjusting the depth of the channels, so they’re more shallow where your skin is thin and deeper where your skin is thicker.

While micro-channels are open, we apply clinic-grade, sterile, single-use solutions such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, and beta-glucan to provide intensive hydration without potent actives. We avoid fragranced or high-acid/retinoid blends, and we never drip non-sterile, at-home dropper serums directly onto freshly needled skin. After 48–72 hours, once the surface has closed, you can gradually reintroduce your at-home dropper serums per the aftercare plan.

Typical Results

We recommend microneedling for common skin issues like textured areas that resist topical exfoliation and large pores in the T-zone. As the surrounding tissue heals around those pores, they’ll reflect less light and appear smaller. It’s also one of the most effective options to address shallow acne scarring, and it’s an excellent step within an entire treatment plan for issues like icepick scars.

You can also expect for fine lines around the mouth and across the cheeks to look less etched as new matrix forms, and for your complexion to look rejuvenated and radiant.

Progress Timeline

Most patients do well with 3-8 sessions, usually around 4 weeks apart. The décolletage and hands often require additional sessions with slightly wider spacing.

  • Within the first day: The skin appears flushed and feels warm or tight for a few hours. The micro-channels close quickly (typically the same day), but the barrier stays a bit more permeable, so keep products clean and straightforward. It is recommended to wait 24 hours before applying makeup.
  • Days 2-3: Your skin will have a dry, “paperlike” feel, and light flaking is typical as the surface turns over. Prioritize a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum, a moisturizer, and daily SPF.
  • Days 5-7: You’ll start to notice that the foundation lays down more evenly and rough areas feel smaller. If there’s no lingering warmth or sting, you can reintroduce mild actives—niacinamide or azelaic acid—on alternate nights. Retinoids and stronger vitamin C are usually applied starting on day 4–5, with use alternating every other night.
  • Weeks 2-4: Fibroblasts lay new matrix under the surface. The texture appears more uniform as old breakout marks start to fade and the skin around pores firms, allowing them to reflect less light.
  • Weeks 4-8: Remodeling continues. Type III collagen laid down early reorganizes toward stronger Type I, so fine lines look less etched and the overall tone improves.
  • Ongoing Maintenance: Once you’ve reached your goal, plan touch-ups every three to six months, while keeping up with broad-spectrum SPF and a barrier-supportive routine between visits.

Is Microneedling With DermaPen Right For Me?

We recommend microneedling for common skin issues like textured areas that resist topical exfoliation and large pores in the T-zone. As the surrounding tissue heals around those pores, they’ll reflect less light and appear smaller.

It’s also one of the most effective options to address shallow acne scarring, and it’s an excellent step within an entire treatment plan for issues like ice-pick scars.

If the timeline and results above match what you’re hoping to see, the next step is a consultation with our licensed esthetician at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Institute, during which we’ll review how many sessions you’re likely to need and when you can expect to notice changes.

To get started, book a microneedling consultation with our esthetician by calling  952.915.6000 extension 1.